Tinubu Administration Seeks Investors, Yet Parades Minors in Court - Inibehe Effiong Criticizes Justice System
By Wisdom Tide
November 2, 2024
Prominent human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has raised concerns about the current administration's approach to criminal justice, highlighting an inconsistency in Nigeria’s efforts to attract foreign investment. Effiong argues that while President Bola Tinubu’s government expresses a desire to gain the confidence of international investors, its handling of young protesters in the justice system sends a conflicting message to the global community.
Criticism of Nigeria’s Criminal Justice System
In a recent statement on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Effiong expressed dismay at what he perceives as a “mockery” of Nigeria’s criminal justice system. He cited the arraignment of minors before a Federal High Court as an example of what he described as an embarrassing practice that undermines the country’s credibility. "The Tinubu regime is making a mockery of our criminal justice system,” Effiong wrote, emphasizing that the treatment of young protesters in court contradicts Nigeria's ambition to attract respect and investment from abroad.
Minors Subjected to Legal Proceedings for Protesting
The critique from Effiong comes amid widespread outcry over the government's treatment of youth who participated in the recent EndBadGovernance protest. Many of these young individuals, mostly minors, were detained and brought before the court under allegedly harsh conditions. According to Effiong, the decision to parade minors in this manner does not align with the values of a democratic society or one that aspires to international standards of justice and human rights.
Implications for International Relations and Investment
Effiong contends that the current administration’s handling of protestors sends a discouraging message to the international community, particularly potential investors who are often concerned about political stability, human rights, and the rule of law in the countries where they operate. "You expect the international community and investors to take Nigeria seriously, but you’re parading minors before a Federal High Court in the most dehumanizing conditions because they allegedly took part in protests,” Effiong remarked, calling attention to the reputational impact of such actions.
Uproar Following the Collapse of a Minor in Court
The public outrage intensified when reports emerged that one of the minors collapsed before the trial proceedings began, underscoring the severity of their treatment. Media sources, including DAILY POST, have reported on this incident, bringing greater attention to the emotional and physical strain placed on these young individuals. The incident has sparked further discussions on the government’s approach to managing dissent and enforcing law and order.
Calls for Reform in Treatment of Protesters and Minors
Effiong’s statement has added momentum to calls for the Nigerian government to rethink its approach to handling protests, especially when minors are involved. He suggests that Nigeria’s aspiration to be a favorable destination for international investment must be supported by a commitment to uphold basic human rights and improve its criminal justice practices
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